The 28-year-old – who was last year touted as a transfer target for Arsenal – completed an incredible €1.5m deadline day loan move to the club of his dreams, Atletico Madrid.

Diego made a dream debut for his new club, coming off the bench with 30 minutes remaining and helped his side score another three goals as they routed Real Sociedad 4-0 at the Vicente Calderon stadium – sending the Rojiblancos to the top of La Liga for the first time in 18 years.

The former Juventus man revealed after the game that boss Diego Simeone played a huge part in his return to Atletico Madrid, adding that el cholo Simeone is a phenomenal coach:

“Simeone played a fundamental part in my return. My relationship with him is spectacular, he is the best coach that I have ever worked with in my life. He has helped me a lot as a player and a person.”

“The trust that Simeone has in me undoubtedly makes a difference in the decisions I take and the one which I will have to take in the future.”

“The group is doing exactly the same as before when I was here, but now they are more used to winning and more prepared to be on top. It was just a question of time.”

The intelligent midfielder – who is eligible to play in the Champions league - adds experience, hunger and ability – traits which have been shining through Atletico Madrid’s impressive side the moment Diego Simeone became boss.

Should Diego Simeone’s magic touch rub off on Diego over the next few months and he produces some eye-catching performances, then the distant dream of making Brazil’s World Cup squad this summer may well become a possibility.

Tom Thorogood

I'm a 27 year old language teacher and writer based out in Mexico with a passion for football and swimming. I like to focus on the top European Leagues, especially La Liga, as well as the footballing development in Central and South America. My favourite teams include Derby County, Barcelona and Jagaures de Chiapas.